We will walk between 1 - 3 km, at a slow pace. Depending on the route on the day, there may be a fairly steep declines or inclines. Also the terrain may be uneven, sandy and/or muddy.

Whatever the weather, it is advised to wear long trousers, a long sleeved top and sturdy walking shoes (preferably waterproof with ankle support). If it is rainy, it is recommended to wear waterproofs. If it is hot, we suggest wearing a sun hat and in cold weather lots of layers!

A picnic rug, ground sheet or similar (a large bin bag can also work for sitting/lying on) or alternatively a small folding chair if more appropriate for you. If it is below 8 degrees, then perhaps bring hand-warmers/small hot water bottle and hot drink. Also a rucksack for your belongings.

We kindly request no dogs on these walks.

How many people will be in the session?

There will be a minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 10.

Is it wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately not, due to the uneven and sometimes muddy nature of the terrain.

What does a session look like?

We will be walking at a slow pace in nature. There will be activities explained by your guide to engage the different senses, finishing with a guided relaxation under a tree canopy. Everything is invitational. More information will be given at the beginning of the Session.

Forest Bathing

Guided Forest Bathing+ experiences

With Every Step Nature Invites Reconnection

What is Forest Bathing?

Forest Bathing comes under the umbrella of ecotherapy. The term Forest Bathing is a direct translation from the Japanese Shinrin Yoku, with Shinrin meaning forest andYoku bathing or basking, and was coined in the 1980s by the Japanese Government. Shinrin Yoku was promoted as a public health practice in a bid to encourage the population to unplug from technology and reconnect with nature for potential mental and physical health benefits. Since then, Shinrin Yoku has become a vital part of preventative health care in Japan with about 65 designated forest therapy centres there as of 2021.

While Forest Bathing is based on the Japanese Shinrin Yoku, the essence goes back a lot further than the 1980s; for thousands of years human cultures have had their own versions of forest bathing with sensorial practices for soaking in the healing potential of the forest, so we could say Forest Bathing is a modern interpretation of age-old wisdom.

Basically, a Forest Bathing session involves soaking up the atmosphere of the forest or woods and bridging the gap between us and the natural world by engaging our senses.

What is Forest Bathing+?

The term Forest Bathing+ (FB+) was introduced by a researcher at the University of Essex who recognised that The Forest Bathing Institute’s version of Forest Bathing sought to deliver the maximum therapeutic effects for its participants.

It differs from Forest Bathing as although its foundation comes from Shinrin Yoku in Japan, it also includes elements from other fields of science (eg research into forest ecology), together with aspects of meditation and mindfulness, earthing and more. FB+ guides are trained to lead meditation as part of their qualification, and this endeavours to create a calming ambience for their sessions. Also guides learn a special sequence of activities which is aimed at relaxing the participant’s nervous system, making space for a transformative experience.

In addition, FB+ was developed with input from the National Health Service, some universities, and mental health charities. These partnerships have facilitated research into how participants respond physically and mentally, increasing the body of research available.

Potential Benefits of FB

Forest Bathing has become an integral part of the healthcare system in Japan, and this is in part due to its many potential benefits. Japanese scientists have been looking at how it works and how this affects the human body. Since then practice of FB and research into its therapeutic effects have taken off, and a significant proportion of the adult population walk the trails in Japan every year; it has become a common wellbeing practice. The sessions can give personalised results with blood pressure and stress hormones being measured before and after.

Not only is research being undertaken in Japan, but worldwide. The Forest Bathing Institute has initiated research with University of Derby, and many more universities. The results of this research show that forest bathing/mindfulness in nature has multiple potential benefits include: